In the know

My name is Chelsea and I am a 2nd year Graphic Design student at Red River College.

Today is my second day at Deschenes Regnier, as part of my three-week graphic design work placement. My previous internship was at the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra working with their in-house designer, so this will be my first experience at a design/marketing agency. I imagine that the environment and vibe of an agency will be much different than my previous experience, but I’m not quite sure what to expect.

In terms of school, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time at Red River College over the past two years. I’ve had my stressful weeks and pulled a few all-nighters, but I’ve learned so much in such a short amount of time. The experience has really opened my eyes to how design is such a quiet, yet integral part of all of our lives that most of us take for granted.

Our instructors at RRC remind us that the assignments we are given in class are dream scenarios: we get to call the shots, from subject matter to any design related decisions, not having to answer to anyone but ourselves and possibly the instructor. I realize that this is unrealistic scenario.

In reality, as designers, we will be answering to clients, art directors and others who will make the final decisions. This is one thing that I imagine will be eye-opening for myself and my classmates as we take on these internships and future job opportunities. I’m hoping my experience at Deschenes Regnier will give me a taste of reality; of what it will be like in the real-world once I finish school.

It’s only my second day and the weeks ahead are a mystery to me. It’s exciting and nerve-racking all at the same time. Those I’ve met so far have been friendly and warm, which will make adjusting to this new environment more comfortable. I’m looking forward to learning as much as I can from those around me, and the opportunity to grow as an individual and as a designer. I’ll be back with an update in week two, thank you for reading!